EVERETT, JAN. 9: The Everett City Council unanimously voted to re-elect Don Schwab as council president and to elect Paula Rhyne as council vice president.
During the first city council meeting of 2026, the mayor, councilmembers, municipal court judges, and a new police chief were sworn in.
Mayor Cassie Franklin begins her third term after being re-elected by Everett voters in the November 2025 General Election. She originally took office in 2018, becoming Everett’s first elected female mayor
“It’s an honor to continue serving this community and I’m grateful for the trust Everett residents have placed in me,” Franklin said. “Our priorities are clear: public safety, with an emphasis on youth and traffic safety; housing and human needs; sustaining quality-of-life services and amenities; and strengthening community engagement. My commitment is to ensure Everett is positioned to lead today and for generations to come.”
Robert Goetz was sworn as Everett’s new chief of police, appointed by Franklin to lead the Everett Police Department following the retirement of Chief John DeRousse.
“It’s an honor to step into the role of chief and continue the strong legacy of integrity, professionalism and innovation built by Chiefs DeRousse, Templeman and the leaders before them,” Goetz said. “Everett has an outstanding police department, and I remain committed to supporting our officers, staff and the Everett community as we move forward together.”
In other news:
The council voted to approve a renewal of a voluntary partnership between the City and Snohomish County. Over the next term, 2026-2030, the county will pay Everett more than $415 thousand.
Funds will support services managed by the Downtown Everett Association. The interlocal agreement will help promote and support the economic vitality of the Downtown Everett Business Improvement Area, according to the ordinance.
Council President Schwab addressed the challenging road ahead such as the ongoing structural deficit. In 2027, the city will have to close a $14 million gap.
“We must be honest about the road ahead this year. We are currently facing a significant budget deficit, and I know this creates a lot of concerns. However, I want to be clear that our mission is to navigate through these financial hurdles while maintaining the essential services that make Everett a safe, vibrant place to live,” Schwab said.
Council meets every Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. in the Everett City Council Chambers, located in the Everett Police Department North Precinct at 3002 Wetmore Ave.
The 4th and, when applicable, the 5th Wednesday of each month will start at 12:30 p.m. Meetings are open to the public.
To learn more about the Everett City Council, see the city webpage.
The full list of those who were sworn in:
- Cassie Franklin, mayor – re-elected, third term
- Erica Weir, councilmember, District 1 – newly elected
- Paula Rhyne, councilmember, District 2 – re-elected, second term
- Don Schwab, councilmember, District 3 – re-elected, second term
- Luis Burbano, councilmember, District 4 – newly elected
- Ben Zarlingo, councilmember, District 5 – re-elected, second term
- Amy Kaestner, municipal court judge, position 1 – re-elected, third full term
- Remy Leonard, municipal court judge, position 2 – re-elected, second full term
- Robert Goetz, police chief – appointed
